The Coast Guard is urging those who head out on Lake St. Clair, and its canals and tributaries, to take proper safety precautions.

With temperatures rising to a high near 50 Monday according to the National Weather Service, the ice which formed in recent days will be "unpredictable and dangerous" according to the Coast Guard.

Falling into the cold lake water can lead to hypothermia, but that can be avoided if outdoor enthusiasts follow what the Coast Guard calls I.C.E, or Intelligence, Clothing, Equipment:

• Intelligence - know the weather and ice conditions, where you are going on the water and how to call for help. Inform family and friends of your plans, destination and when you plan on returning. Also, never go on the ice alone.
• Clothing — dress for the water temperature and have proper clothing to prevent hypothermia.
• Equipment - have proper safety equipment including a marine radio, life jackets, screw drivers or ice picks to pull yourself out of the water.